There's more to Oxford than its fabled namesake university and cluster of college campuses. The quaint city of Oxford, England offers a bevy of lesser-known treasures that are worthy of attention.
The old-world mystique and serene greenery that Oxford pulsates with - is conducive to untrammelled imagination.
No wonder the city inspired the likes of Lewis Carroll, C.S. Lewis, and J.R.R. Tolkien. They birthed their masterpieces Alice In Wonderland, The Chronicles of Narnia, and The Lord of The Rings - cocooned within the Eden that Oxford is.
“I wonder anybody does anything at Oxford but dream and remember, the place is so beautiful. One almost expects the people to sing instead of speaking." - William Butler Yeats
It's a city spun out of beautiful dreams and dotted with soaring spires - a characteristic feature that gained it the title, the "City of Dreaming Spires".
While on the one hand, neoclassical buildings and medieval passageways will take your breath away, on the other - rolling meadowlands and enveloping greenery will breathe new life into you!
This picturesque old city abounds with both natural and man-made beauty. From parks to museums, galleries to gardens - there are a number of places and experiences that you just cannot miss on your trip to Oxford, England.
Christ Church College
The grandest, largest of the academic firmament, the Christ Church college in Oxford, England has produced 13 British prime ministers.
Nearby attractions include: Tom Tower conceived by Sir Christopher Wren and Christ Church Cathedral, the piece de resistance - a vaulted ceiling and collection of stained glass windows.
It wouldn't be right if we fail to mention, that the college has a connection with the famous Harry Potter series. Many of the college's hallways and corridors have featured in the Harry Potter and X-Men series.
Visit the Array of Museums
Given its historic allure, it isn't surprising that Oxford has over 20 museums to tickle the imagination of every cultured tourist.
The unmissable ones are:
The Ashmolean Museum, home to the stunning artefacts that transcend time and cultures.
Pitt Rivers Museum that boasts intriguing items such as Egyptian headdresses, Japanese masks, etc.
Oxford Museum of the History of Science which houses dinosaur exhibits from around the world.
Other notable museums include:
The Oxford University Museum of Natural History
Modern Art Oxford
The Story Museum
The Museum of Oxford.
Go Punting!
We can't think of a better way to unwind like a true local than taking a punt ride on the river.
You could either hire a chauffeured punting service or take the punt on rent. Punting is a quintessential 'Oxford thing' that's popular with the tourists, students, and locals.
Amble Through the Radcliffe Square
Sited at the very heart of the university and one of the easily recognizable landmarks of Oxford, England, the Radcliffe Square is a must-visit attraction.
Hemmed in by iconic structures from all the directions: All Souls College in the east, Brasenose College in the west, Bodleian Library and the Sheldonian Theatre in the north, and St Mary's Church in the south.
It is crowned by the dome of the marvelous Radcliffe Camera designed by the renowned Scottish architect, James Gibbs.
Explore the Bodleian Library
The Bodleian Library or "the Bod" as popularly known among students, is one of the oldest and magnificent libraries in Europe.
It also happens to be one of the UK's five legal deposit libraries, holding a copy of every book ever published in the Great Britain and Ireland. The library offers daily guided tours that are truly unmissable.
Take a Walking Tour of the Oxford University
Not only it is fun, but also refreshing to be guided by the students of Oxford University on the walking tours!
Explore the lush grounds of the colleges, and unearth the inside story and drama behind the world's most prestigious educational institution. You definitely cannot pass this up!
Marvel at the Bridge of Sighs
Officially known as the Hertford Bridge, the Bridge of Sighs is a skyway bridge binding two halves of the Hertford College in Oxford, England.
Owing to its striking resemblance to its namesake in Venice, Italy, the Hertford Bridge is also known as the Bridge of Sighs, a sight to behold!
Head to the Oxford Covered Market
Oxford is incomplete without the mention of the lively Covered Market. A delight for both bonafide shopaholics and window shoppers!
This hopping hub is packed to the rafters with cozy cafes, vintage boutiques, independent stalls, florists, and stores of all kinds.
Insider's tip: Stop by Moo-Moo's for its delicious milkshakes; the queue will be long, but it's worth the wait!
Take a Stroll on the Luscious Green Spaces
There's no dearth of parks and gardens in Oxford. The scenic beauty dotted with green spaces will make your heart sing cheery songs.
The Botanic Garden, Bury Knowle, University Parks, Port Meadow, and Wytham Woods are a must-visit. They should feature on every nature aficionado's to-do list!
Enjoy the City Views from the University Church Tower
Nestled in the heart of the city of Oxford, England - the University Church of St. Mary the Virgin, is a remarkable example of the then-prevalent perpendicular style of architecture.
The most notable feature of the Church, is the tower that was built way back in 1280. The tower provides the dreamiest, panoramic view of Oxford. It goes without saying you can't miss this for anything!
While it's true that Oxford is a quaint, small city in England, it is, however, peppered with spectacular edifices and idyllic experiences all of which call for unhurried immersion.
Though just an hour away from London, we'd recommend spending a good 2-3 days to enjoy the city in all its glory.